Architectural Products Update

 
Photovoltaic Glass

Pythagoras Solar offers a new PV glass unit, one of its building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) products. The transparent glass unit combines high-density solar power generation with the modularity and insulating benefits of a standard insulating glass unit, while also preventing most direct solar radiation from entering the building. The product has a power density of 13 Watts per square foot (140 Watts per square meter), a U-value of 0.3, a solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) of 0.17, and a visible light transmission of 75 percent to facilitate daylighting. Easily incorporated into conventional construction. Designed for vertical curtain wall and skylight applications.

pythagoras-solar.com

 
Unlatched Fire Doors

Wrightstyle introduces its system of unlatched fire doors. In normal use, the doors allow free passage in both directions, either swinging back automatically into the closed position or fitted with an automated swing-door operator. In a fire, the doors will automatically close securely, providing a barrier against fire and toxic gases. Available in single- or double-leaf format and in a range of surface finishes, including steel, stainless steel, and fully glazed. Hinges and closer mechanisms can be concealed in the framing system. Recently used in the Dubai Metro and in other projects in the United States and elsewhere.

wrightstyle.co.uk

 
Pervious Pavement

The Grasspave² porous pavement system performs the functions of asphalt or concrete pavement, but with the aesthetics of a lawn. The flexible, permeable grass paver provides a drivable, load-bearing surface while facilitating stormwater management and protecting the vegetation root system from compaction. The paving system consists of a sandy gravel base course; Hydrogrow polymer-fertilizer mixture; the Grasspave² ring and grid structure, made of recycled HDPE plastic; clean, sharp concrete sand; and grass seed or sod. Applications include fire lanes, parking areas, access roads, low-use driveways, and walkways. Projected lifespan of 60 years. From Invisible Structures, Inc.

invisiblestructures.com

 
Green Prefab Homes

LivingHomes sustainable prefabricated homes are now also available in Canada. With open floor plans, exterior decks, solar-ready green roofs, and geothermal heating and cooling, the homes designed for Canada are targeting LEED Platinum certification. Resource-efficient features include triple-paned, argon-filled glass; blown-in closed-cell insulation; water-conserving plumbing fixtures; and systems for rainwater collection and graywater reuse. The factory-built modules can typically be assembled onsite in a single day. Noted architect Ray Kappe, FAIA, has designed the first residences planned for Toronto, being developed by Nexterra Green Homes. The first LivingHomes house, also designed by Kappe, was the first LEED Platinum-rated home in the United States.

livinghomes.net

 
Synthetic Roofing Underlayment

The Opus™ Roof Blanket is a synthetic roofing underlayment that offers an alternative to felt paper and plastic sheeting underlayiment under all types of steep-slope roofing materials. The product has a slip-resistant surface for high walking surface traction and is easy to chalk or mark. The non-glare surface stays cool to the touch even in direct sunlight. The material is lighter than felt and provides better coverage per roll: each 32-pound (14.5-kilogram) roll comprises eight squares. Warranty protects the roof deck up to 30 months uncovered against tearing, UV degradation, and moisture infiltration. From Propex Operating Company, LLC.

opusroofblanket.com